Venice

Any holidaymakers who have dreamed of relaxing with their special someone on a gently rocking gondola, easing through canals in a historic and beautiful city might not be surprised to know that Venice offers visitors all that and more.

However, there is much more to Venice, in its history, geography, art and culture than a glass of wine and relaxing sunset. The history of Venice in its current state started, perhaps somewhat surprisingly, with Attila the Hun's invasion of Italy. Repelling the crumbling Romans Empire, Attilla's armies marched on the country, forcing many inhabitants of the countryside to flee, seeking refuge on the islands which now make up modern Venice. After the barbarian armies withdrew, following the plea of Pope Leo, the 12 lagoon communities formed a township around 466 AD, which later led to the city that holidaymakers enjoy in more peaceful times.

Most of the visitors to Venice find themselves, rather unlike Attilla's raging barbarian hordes, in the rather more urbane Marco Polo Airport. The facility serves over 180 destinations, situated around 12 km from the city itself.

After arriving in the area, visitors have a number of options, dependent on budget, to travel to their luxury apartment or cheap hotel. Vaporetto (water bus) is an impressive and convenient method, although if visitors prefer the laid-back approach, the traditional gondola may be preferred different option.

Once arrived in the city, unpacked and ready to enjoy, Venice's 117 islands offer a variety of attractions for holidaymakers, whether beach bunnies or sight-seers. The city's tourist board asserts that easy access to golden sands is available on Lido and Cavallino beaches. A short trip from the city's heart via a ferry or car, Lido beach, on Lido island, might provide glorious sunshine and provide "something for everyone".

Perhaps unsurprisingly, in a nation which prides itself on its food, a wide range of quality dining is available throughout Venice, with traditional Italian dishes available for travellers, although seafood from the local lagoons is particularly popular on the menu.

Many popular events take place throughout the year in Venice, for travellers who prefer to have an itinerary as packed as their suitcases, such as the highly acclaimed Venice Film Festival, or Mostra Internazionale d'Arte Cinematografica, where the internationally sought Golden Lion Award is presented. In recent years Hollywood stars have flocked to the festival, so fans of glamour and glitz may opt to visit the city between August 30th and September 9th when the event takes place.

Travellers who would prefer to visit a museum or gallery than lounge on a beach should find something to interest them among the famous canals and backstreets, as attractions such as the Guggenheim and Gallerie dell'Accademia.

The Guggenheim is a world-famous attraction, holding works from celebrated artists such as Picasso, Matisse, Jackson Pollock and Dali.

Hotels, campsites, rental homes, farm houses and various other establishments provide visitors to Venice with a wide selection of options for accommodation. Five-star luxury is available for those who put bellissimo before budget, with hotels such as Cipriani, Bauer and The Westin Excelsior providing accommodation within easy reach of the city's sights.

This article is provided by Hotels Hotels Hotels suppliers of cheap hotels in Venice

Updated: Thu, 03 Aug 2006 00:00:00

Related Links:
Venice Tourist Board
Venice Airport